Kohlrabi: 5 Health Benefits

Kohlrabi is a vegetable that’s loaded with Vitamin C, phytochemicals and other healthy nutrients. It’s in the same family as kale, Brussels sprouts, broccoli and cauliflower. Many describe kohlrabi’s taste as similar to a broccoli stem, or a mild radish, cabbage or jicama. Thanks to the healing nutrients it contains, kohlrabi health benefits include the ability to improve heart health, decrease the risk of diabetes, lower blood pressure levels and even fight cancer.

Kohlrabi Health Benefits

1. Fights Cancer

Kohlrabi is among the most powerful cancer-fighting foods. Studies have shown that cruciferous vegetables have the ability to stop the growth of cancer cells in breast, endometrium, lung, colon, liver and cervix cancer. The anti-cancer properties of kohlrabi health benefits stem from its sulfer-containing compounds, known as glucosinolates. Glucosinolates help support the detox process and eliminate carcinogens in the body before they can cause damage to the cells. (1)

2. Improves Heart Health

Kohlrabi health benefits include improved heart health. Studies have shown that diets rich in vegetables can help protect the heart from cardiovascular disease. According to a study published in the Journal of Nutrition, both fruit and vegetable consumption are associated with a reduced risk of coronary heart disease. (2)

3. Decreases the Risk of Obesity and Diabetes

Kohlrabi health benefits include a reduced risk of obesity. The nutritious vegetable contains high amounts of both water and fiber. A high-fiber diet can help increase satiety to prevent snacking and overeating, which can also help decrease body weight. Obesity is considered to be one of the main risk factors for type 2 diabetes. Kohlrabi health benefits also include a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes. Increasing your vegetable intake can help naturally lower blood sugar levels. Kohlrabi health benefits include a healthy addition to a diabetic diet. (3)

4. Lowers Blood Pressure

One of the best ways to naturally lower blood pressure is to improve your diet. Kohlrabi health benefits include the ability to help manage blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease, heart attack and stroke. Increased vegetable intake is associated with lower blood pressure levels. Kohlrabi health benefits also include a reduced risk of arteriosclerosis. The high levels of Vitamin C it contains can help strengthen the immune system and reduce the risk of many health issues, including high blood pressure.

5. Reduces C-Reactive Protein

Kohlrabi health benefits include reducing C-reactive protein in the body. C-reactive protein, produced by the liver, is a blood test marker for inflammation. Disease-causing inflammation leads to higher levels of C-reactive proteins. Kohlrabi health benefits include lower inflammation levels. According to a study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, a high intake of carotenoid-rich fruit and vegetables, including kohlrabi, reduces the level of C-reactive proteins in the body. This in turn, helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and other inflammatory health issues. (4)